State Schools Chief Appoints New Technology Services Division Director

SACRAMENTO — State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson on Nov. 1 announced that he has appointed Rodney Okamoto as director of the Technology Services Division.

Rodney Okamoto

His division provides the California Department of Education with information technology (IT) leadership, technical services, and a state-of-the-art infrastructure that enables it to deliver effective education services in California.

Okamoto most recently served as IT manager II, overseeing the Information Systems and Services Office in the Technology Services Division. During his more than 20 years at the California Department of Education, he has chaired the multi-state Smarter Balanced Technology Workgroup and served as California’s IT readiness coordinator. His efforts were a major reason California was recognized for the most successful implementation of computer-based assessments in the country.

“Rodney has demonstrated a wealth of knowledge, technical expertise, and leadership skills,” Torlakson said. “His team-oriented personality will help the CDE fulfill its mission of providing California students a world-class education in our multicultural, multilingual, and highly connected world. Utilizing technology strengthens education for our students, as well as the educational support happening in our Department and at schools throughout California.”

Okamoto replaces Kevin Matsuo, who has retired.

Prior to joining CDE, Okamoto worked for 10 years in technical user support, software installation and development, and management roles at System Integrators Inc., a company that specialized in developing computer systems for major metropolitan newspapers. He has a bachelor’s degree in computer science from CSU Sacramento.